Heterogeneous Network Path Selection Using Weight Tables
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current path selection mechanisms, such as distance vector and link state algorithms, are ineffective in heterogeneous network systems due to varying communication standards among network apparatuses, leading to complex dynamic link relationships and inability to find the most appropriate transmission path.
Innovation Solution
A network apparatus with a storage unit and processor in a heterogeneous network system uses weight tables associated with network service conditions to measure and combine local and global transmission parameters, calculating path costs to select the most appropriate transmission path.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If distance vector algorithm or link state algorithm is adopted for path selection in heterogeneous network system, then path selection mechanism is established, but it is impossible to get the most appropriate path due to complex dynamic link relationships
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameters used for path selection from traditional routing metrics to transmission parameters specific to each interface type (PLC, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, MoCA). It introduces weight tables that assign different weights to various transmission parameters based on network service conditions, allowing accurate cost calculation despite heterogeneous interface types and dynamic topology changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by treating each interface type and link segment with specific transmission parameters and weights tailored to its characteristics. Instead of using a uniform path selection criterion across the entire heterogeneous network, it locally optimizes path cost calculation for each interface type (PLC, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, MoCA) and link condition, enabling accurate path selection in complex dynamic environments.
2Productivity
If traditional routing algorithms are used in homogeneous network system, then path selection is efficient, but these algorithms cannot be applied to heterogeneous network systems with varying communication standards
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal path selection mechanism that works across multiple interface types (PLC, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, MoCA) by introducing a standardized framework of transmission parameters and weight tables. This multi-functional approach allows the same path selection algorithm to efficiently handle homogeneous and heterogeneous network segments, maintaining productivity while adapting to varying communication standards.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the path selection approach by changing from protocol-specific metrics to universal transmission parameters that can be measured across different interface types. By parameterizing the path cost calculation based on measurable transmission characteristics rather than protocol-specific details, the system achieves both efficiency and adaptability across heterogeneous network environments.
3Adaptability or versatility
If network apparatus joins or leaves heterogeneous network system, then network dynamicity increases, but topology and link relationships change significantly making path selection difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling each network apparatus to autonomously measure its own transmission parameters and calculate path costs using locally stored weight tables. When devices join or leave the network, they automatically participate in or stop participating in path calculations without requiring centralized topology management, reducing complexity while maintaining adaptability to dynamic changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent embraces dynamics by making the path selection mechanism inherently adaptive to topology changes. Instead of maintaining static routing tables that require updates when devices join or leave, the system dynamically recalculates path costs based on current transmission parameters measured by each apparatus, allowing seamless adaptation to network changes without increasing management complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A heterogeneous network system, network apparatus, and rendezvous path selection method thereof are provided. The heterogeneous network system includes several partner network apparatuses and a network apparatus. The network apparatus stores at least one weighting table, wherein each weighting table is related to one network service condition. The interface types of the transceiving interfaces of the partner network apparatuses and the network apparatus are not all the same. The network apparatus measures at least one first transmission parameter and receives several second transmission parameters. Each of the first and second transmission parameters is related to transmission between two network apparatuses neighboring each other. The network apparatus enumerates several paths toward a target network apparatus and calculates a path cost corresponding to each of the paths according to one of the weighting table(s) and a portion of the at least one first transmission parameter and the second transmission parameters.